Marilyn Jo Prater, 76, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 in Wichita, Kansas. She was born on November 27, 1948 in Wichita. Jo spent her life rooted in the community she loved. The family is deeply saddened and shocked by her sudden death.

Jo dedicated many years of her professional life to the USD 259 maintenance department and later retired from The Wichita Eagle. Her work ethic and commitment were evident throughout her career, and she left a lasting impression on those she worked with.

Family was the heart of Jo’s world. She is survived by her two sons; Tary (Melissa) Morris and Timothy (Crystal) Morris, two brothers; Wayne (Cathy) Schwartz and Steve (Ronda) Schwartz, nine grandchildren; Shawna, Kaylor, Ty, Nick, Hunter, Tucker, Kayleigh, Jayden, and Trynitee, and four great grandchildren; McKaylin, Kasten, Noah, and Elizabeth. She also leaves behind many other beloved family members who were touched by her warmth and kindness.

Jo was preceded in death by her parents Harold and Elizabeth “Betty” Schwartz, her husband, Henry L Prater, and her son, Michael Todd Morris. The loss of Michael deeply shaped Jo’s life and perspective she carried his memory with grace and strength every day.

Known affectionally as “Mema” by all her grandchildren and great- grandchildren, Jo had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, her home was always open for family gatherings during holidays or any occasion worth celebrating. She found joy in togetherness and delighted in this laughter of children running through the house.

Jo had a passion for sports, she enjoyed watching any game she could find and never turned down a good card game, especially spades, Skip-Bo and Phase 10. Her competitive spirit was matched only by her generous heart, she believed in seeing the good in people and made it a point to accept everyone who came into her life with open arms.

A graveside internment service will be held at El Paso Cemetery, 700 East Kay Street Derby, Ks 67037 on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. Following the internment a celebration of life potluck will take place at American Legion Post 4 located at 816 N Water St. Wichita, Ks 67203.

Jo’s legacy lives on through the love she gave so freely to those around her. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.

Arrangements are by Affordable Cremations Plus, Wichita, Ks.

https://www.affordablecremationsplus.com/obituary/marilyn-prater